Hanoi Launches Emergency Flood Prevention Plan

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Hanoi has announced a massive effort to curb flooding by initiating emergency works worth VND5.6 trillion (US$212.8 million) before the 2026 rainy season. The initiative aims to improve the city’s drainage systems and disaster response capabilities following recent severe flooding events that disrupted daily life and infrastructure.

The city's government reported to the People's Council that multiple storm-driven floods had led to significant disruptions. In reviewing flood causes, officials identified factors such as an unsynchronized sewer network and key drainage facilities lagging behind in development. Within Hanoi’s 313 square kilometer inner city, only 77.5 square kilometers currently benefit from an effective drainage system, notably in the To Lich River basin.

Additionally, major drainage outlets and pumping stations are underperforming or incomplete. For example, the drainage capacity on the Day River’s west bank is just 20% of its needed potential. The Yen Nghia and Lien Mac pumping stations face operational and construction challenges, respectively, with delays also affecting crucial regulating lakes needed under the master plan, where only 1,010 hectares out of a planned 5,405 hectares have been realized.

The city highlights a lack of systemic management and connection inconsistencies in some new urban areas' drainage systems. Poor alignment of ground elevation levels in new developments further exacerbates flood risks. In response, Hanoi aims to enhance disaster resilience, maintain water quality, and prevent pollution, emphasizing prompt funding allocation and streamlined investment procedures to meet the 2026 deadline.

Recent severe weather events have highlighted the urgency of improvements. Typhoon Kajiki caused widespread flooding on Aug. 26, submerging streets like Nguyen Trai and causing traffic chaos as water levels surged to a meter. A record downpour on Sept. 30 surpassed the drainage capacity, necessitating military intervention, while Typhoon Bualoi’s onslaught on Oct. 7 paralyzed multiple streets, further disrupting daily activities.

Looking ahead, Hanoi is keen on effectively implementing these emergency measures to mitigate future flood impacts. Prioritizing completion of major project components and enhancing infrastructure preparedness are focal points for the city's continued resilience efforts in facing future storms and rainy seasons, reported VN Express.

Key Takeaways

• Hanoi will invest VND5.6 trillion in flood prevention by 2026.
• Synchronicity issues in drainage systems were identified as major causes.
• Recent typhoons and storms severely highlighted infrastructure gaps.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now from VN Express 2025-12-16